Dangerous conditions for boaters from this afternoon

Roads and Maritime Services has issued an alert after a Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warning about dangerous surf conditions forecast to affect the southern NSW coast from this afternoon and extend north to Seal Rocks tomorrow.

The BoM forecast is for dangerous conditions stemming from a moderate but high energy south/south westerly swell which is expected to affect mainly southerly facing beaches and exposed headlands.

Skippers and owners of small craft should be on high alert and check the conditions before considering crossing a coastal bar or heading offshore.

Rock fishers should also check weather forecasts before heading out to decide whether it is safe to fish near dangerous surf.

Strong winds can also cause dangerous conditions for vessels on moorings which have been poorly maintained.

Every skipper is responsible for the safety of their vessel and all on board. Roads and Maritime advises skippers to:

• Check the official weather forecast before and during boating
• Ensure the boat and its equipment is suitable for the conditions
• Log on/off with a Marine Rescue NSW marine radio base for every trip offshore
• Wear a lifejacket.